Adenocarcinoma of cervix

abrub said:

I was dx'd with a stage 4 Adenocarcinoma in 2007

It was found on my ovary; originated in my appendix.  Cancer treatments are improving day by day.  It's also not just the tumor type, but the type of tissue it's found in - a tumor that may be deadly in one organ may not be in another.  Be careful on Dr. Google; don't terrify yourself.  But do ensure that you get with a gyn onc specialist; if necessary going to one of the major cancer centers.

My current status:  cancer is growing slowly, but I'm living a perfectly normal life.  No treatments right now, just watch and wait.

Alice

Alice, 

Your post gives me so much hope. I’m so glad to hear you are doing so well 11 years out from your diagnosis. I can’t stop the thoughts that creep into my head wondering how long I might have...1 years...2 years. I see a gyn/onc on the 29th in Dallas. I’ve read a lot about him and am really impressed with what I’ve read. I am also thinking about going to MD Anderson in Houston for a second opinion. It couldn’t hurt. Just the thought of waiting that long and not knowing what stage I’m at is really hard. I hope you continue doing so well. 

abrub said:

MD Anderson is one of the best in the world

I heard things with my original diagnosis - some other variants on tumor types that I "knew" were always quickly fatal (my dr mentioned some goblet cell).  But again, it depends on the organ affected.  We all have goblet cells (they produce mucin and are also part of our normal cells.)  I was convinced I'd be dead within months.  And the month before I got to meet with an oncololgist was the longest month of my life.

Your head is spinning.  I completely understand that feeling.  Let's get things in order, get plans in place.  And a point to bring up, before further surgeries, might be asking about whether or not vaginal reconstruction will be an issue/possibility.  (I had a plastic surgeon involved in my most recent surgery because I knew I was going to lose a portion of my vagina, and I hoped to be able to remain sexually active.  I am.)

Write down questions; record your sessions with the drs, and bring someone with you who can also listen.

PM me if you want direct contact.

Alice

Great advice Alice. I have learned over the last couple of days I need a couple of notebooks. One to journal my journey, thoughts and experiences and one to write down useful information. Vaginal reconstruction had not even occurred to me. Thank you for that great advice. I will definitely pm you at times...you give me so much hope. Thank you.